In a recent court filing, prosecutors involved in the case against a man accused of murdering four University of Idaho students are aiming to present a college paper he authored as evidence. This document reportedly demonstrates his understanding of crime scenes.
Bryan Kohberger, aged 30, faces accusations related to the tragic stabbing deaths of Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, and Kaylee Goncalves, which occurred at a rental property close to the campus in Moscow, Idaho. Autopsy reports indicate that the four individuals were likely asleep at the time of the attack. Some exhibited defensive wounds, and each victim suffered multiple stab injuries.
Kohberger faces four murder charges related to the stabbings that occurred on November 13, 2022. Prosecutors are planning to pursue the death penalty should he be found guilty.
The trial for Kohberger is set to commence on August 11. Last year, when Kohberger was asked to enter a plea, he remained silent, leading the judge to officially record a not guilty plea for him.
Prosecutors revealed in a court filing on Monday that a paper authored by Kohberger in 2020 during his time as a student at DeSales University in Pennsylvania “would be introduced to show Defendant’s knowledge of crime scenes.”
A 12-page document titled “Crime-scene Scenario Final” examines a case involving the murder of a woman, where a knife was reportedly utilised.
The article outlines essential measures that authorities must implement to ensure the security and thorough investigation of a crime scene. Key steps include restricting access to prevent contamination, securing a search warrant, and notifying a supervisor, coroner, and forensic services.
The document outlines the tools utilised in crime scene investigations, the procedures for gathering evidence, and the protocols for entering a crime scene to prevent contamination, emphasising the importance of wearing gloves and other protective gear.
“Items that lack fibre and provide full coverage of the mouth, hair, and body can be beneficial in preventing contamination at crime scenes,” the report stated.
Kohberger, a former criminal justice graduate student at Washington State University, was taken into custody in Pennsylvania just weeks following the murders. Authorities reported that they have linked his DNA to genetic evidence obtained from a knife sheath discovered at the scene of the crime.
The college paper outlines methods for maintaining the integrity of the chain of custody for evidence. The investigation emphasises the critical role of collecting surveillance footage and interviewing potential witnesses.
The report stated, “Anyone who typically walks by the area, including a mailman, ought to be questioned and an alibi confirmed.” “What were the neighbours doing at the time of this incident?” Evidence should clearly support their alibis.
The recent killings have sent shockwaves through Moscow, a tight-knit farming community of roughly 25,000 residents that had enjoyed a homicide-free existence for nearly five years. The trial has been relocated from rural northern Idaho to Boise following the defense’s concerns regarding the fairness of the proceedings in the county where the murders took place.
On April 9, Judge Steven Hippler will hold a hearing to review pretrial motions. Key decisions are pending regarding whether a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder could exempt Kohberger from facing the death penalty if found guilty. Additionally, there is debate over the admissibility of audio from a 911 call made by two women in the residence approximately eight hours post-killings, as they discovered one of their roommates unresponsive.
A gag order has been put in place by the court, restricting all parties involved in the trial from speaking publicly. Additionally, cameras will not be permitted in the courtroom.
